New ‘Travel to Europe’ App Ready but Not Yet Available
The European Union has developed a mobile app designed to speed up border checks under the new Entry/Exit System (EES). The ‘Travel to Europe’ app, previously known as QuickBorder, allows travelers to pre-register some of their data before arriving at the border. However, it is not yet available for download, and individual countries must decide whether to authorise its use.
French officials have not confirmed if the app will be used at French borders, and Frontex, the EU’s border agency, has stated that its adoption will be at the discretion of each member state.
How Will the App Work?
The app will allow travelers to upload passport details by scanning their biometric passport chip, take a selfie, and answer entry-related questions, such as the purpose of their visit and duration of stay. The data will then be sent to border guards and remain valid for one week. However, fingerprints will still need to be collected at the border.
While the app is not mandatory, it is expected to speed up border checks, especially for groups like elderly travelers, people with disabilities, and families with young children.
EES Set for a Phased Rollout
The EES, which will apply to all non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss travelers, requires visitors to provide:
✔ Passport data
✔ Facial image
✔ Fingerprint scan
✔ Answers to travel-related questions
This data will be stored in a database, and entries and exits will be logged. However, due to delays, the EES will now be introduced gradually at select border points. A new EU regulation is needed to approve this phased approach, with implementation likely in late 2025.
The UK’s Port of Dover is currently preparing for a November 2025 launch, but neither the UK Department for Transport nor the Home Office have confirmed this estimate.
ETIAS to Follow EES Rollout
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be introduced several months after EES comes into effect. This system will apply to visa-exempt travelers and require a €7 application fee, granting authorisation for three years.
ETIAS will have a six-month transitional period, during which travelers should apply but will not be refused entry if they meet other border requirements. After this, a six-month grace period will begin, where ETIAS will be mandatory, but first-time entrants since the transition will be allowed entry without it.
✔ ETIAS is expected to launch in late 2025 or early 2026.
✔ Turkish nationals will be exempt from ETIAS requirements.
As the EU prepares for these new digital border controls, travelers should stay informed and prepare for changes that will impact future trips to the Schengen area.